Implementing solid phase microextraction (SPME) as a tool to detect volatile compounds produced by giant pandas in the environment.

ABSTRACT: Chemical cues are thought to play an important role in mate identification in the solitary giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). The goal of this study was to detect and identify volatile compounds present in the enclosure air of captive giant pandas. We hypothesized that a subset of compounds produced from breeding animals would be detected in environmental samples because highly volatile chemicals are likely to facilitate mate detection. Samples were collected from the enclosures of 8 giant pandas (n = 4 male, n = 4 female) during the Mar-June breeding season and the Aug-Jan non-breeding period from 2012-2015. Volatile compounds were captured by securing a solid phase micro extraction fiber approximately 3 meters above the ground within a panda enclosure for 6-12 hours. Compounds adsorbe

SUBMITTER: Wilson AE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6300211 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature